Cape Coral, FL — “Our biggest challenge is a result of this sports culture that teaches athletes to be tough, to deal with pain, and to minimize signs of weakness. It can be difficult to reach out to get the help you need.”
My colleagues and I were a little relieved to hear today that doctors were able to remove Dumar Hamlin’s breathing tube.
What happened to the Buffalo Bills’ safety earlier this week left many of us in shock and started many conversations.
Not only the physical health of the injured person, mental health likewise.
In 2021, there will be approximately 409,000 injuries caused by exercise equipment. This is the highest number of any category in sports and recreation. That’s according to the National Security Council. Physical recovery is just one aspect of him dealing with potentially life-altering injuries, especially when that sport or activity is part of his daily routine.
Kathy Feinstein, licensed local mental health counselor and sports performance consultant, said: And all of a sudden I can’t exercise…I can’t run…so it’s really, really hard to just sit back and watch it. ’ Kathy has helped me understand the connection between injury and mental health.
She told me there are warning signs that you or a loved one can look for if mental health support is available during recovery.
- Socially withdrawn…does not spend time with friends
- change in appetite
- changes in sleep patterns
- Losing interest in things you normally enjoy
- self harm
- Hypersensitivity
- substance abuse
- Suicidal thoughts… talk about feeling hopeless and not wanting to be here
Feinstein notes that altered interests in things you might have previously enjoyed, irritability, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, or substance abuse could be signs of the effects of physical injury on mental health. It says there is
If you see changes in your behavior or the behavior of a loved one after a serious injury, whether sports-related or not, there are resources for you and a licensed mental health professional or Contacting a counselor is the first step, says Feinstein. to recovery.
If you or someone you know needs help, here are some resources you can visit:
NAMI Locations in Florida
David Lawrence Center
traveling therapist
